New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said on Oct. 26 that the state will fully fund free school meals statewide regardless of cuts to federal food assistance. This year's state budget includes $395 million, and 2.7 million students receive free breakfast and lunch regardless of household income.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said on Monday, Oct. 26, that the state will fully fund its universal free school meals program statewide despite cuts to federal food assistance. The state explained that no school will see its free meal funding reduced because of federal changes.
According to the state's announcement, about 2.7 million New York students are receiving free breakfast and lunch through the program regardless of household income. Since the new school year began in September, an estimated 75 million free meals have been served, averaging about 2.5 million meals per school day. The state estimates that families can save up to $1,600 per child per year on food costs.
This year's state budget (fiscal year 2027) allocates $395 million for free school meals, an increase of $55 million from the previous fiscal year. Hochul explained the move by pointing to the universal free school meals law enacted last year, as well as the federal law known as H.R. 1, which cuts the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and is causing some families to lose food assistance. The announcement cited a recent Washington Post report saying participation in free school meals has declined in other states following federal SNAP changes.
Under the universal free school meals law, school districts, charter schools and private schools that participate in the National School Lunch and Breakfast programs must provide free breakfast and lunch to all students regardless of household income. Children in households receiving SNAP or Medicaid are automatically identified as eligible for free meals without a separate application. Other families can apply through their schools, and more information is available on the New York State Education Department's Child Nutrition Program website (cn.nysed.gov).